Policy and Public Affairs Adviser - New Zealand High Commission, Pretoria

Policy and Public Affairs Adviser - New Zealand High Commission, Pretoria

• Are you passionate about conducting high-quality political, trade and economic research and synthesising key information into written and spoken English?
• Do you have (or can you build) a strong network of contacts  in government,  private sector, academia and civil society?
• Do you enjoy crafting social media content and delivering public diplomacy initiatives?
• Are you experienced in supporting and accompanying visiting delegations?
• Would you like to join a small and close-knit High Commission team of 11, delivering for New Zealand in South Africa and our countries of accreditation?

If this sounds like you….

• The New Zealand High Commission is recruiting a full-time Policy and Public Affairs Adviser. 
• The focus of this role is:
  • political, economic and regulatory analysis,
  • promoting New Zealand trade,
  • supporting engagement by visiting New Zealand officials and businesses in South Africa and our accredited countries
  • managing the High Commission’s social media.

Who are we looking for?

This is a busy and stimulating job with scope to learn about New Zealand’s foreign and trade policy and build on your research and policy expertise.

We are looking someone who is openminded, curious, flexible and organised. You should be skilled at diving into substantive policy detail one minute, and then switching to an operational task the next.

You will need to think independently, demonstrate initiative, engage proactively and offer informed opinions and solutions to problems. A positive outlook and a good sense of humour is essential!

We value team players who work collaboratively and are happy to take on different tasks and responsibilities as needed.

Your work each day could include:

• Conducting research or attending external meetings for foreign policy, trade or economic analysis, drafting policy reports and providing advice or recommendations.
• Building networks with government, private sector, academia, civil society and other diplomatic missions.
• Drafting visit and event objectives and programmes.
• Attending meetings on behalf of the High Commission.
• Creating and managing the High Commission’s social media content.
• Drafting diplomatic notes and official correspondence.
• The role may involve domestic and international travel.  

What we offer

• A welcoming and professional working environment and attractive terms and conditions.
• Market related salary range: ZAR 530,345 – 623,935 dependent on skills, experience and qualifications.
• Medical and social insurance coverage.
• A happy, healthy and inclusive work environment.

The High Commission is based in Pretoria and accredited to Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Eswatini, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The High Commission is part of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (www.mfat.govt.nz).

How to apply

Please email enquiries@nzhc.co.za with the subject line Job Application: Policy and Public Affairs Adviser and include the following:

• A Cover Letter in English (maximum two pages) explaining why you are applying for the role.
• A CV outlining relevant skills (including language/s) and experience.
• Contact details of two referees (one must be a recent employer/manager; family members are not eligible).

Applications that do not come by email to the email address above will not be considered –  so please DO NOT click the ‘apply’ button on this advert.

The deadline for receipt of applications is 5.00 pm Friday 15 August 2025 (South African time).

• Shortlisted applicants will complete a short written assessment and interview. 
• Start date: as soon as possible.

Please note:

• This is position is subject to South African local employment law. As such, you must have the right to work in South Africa to be eligible to apply for this position.
• A valid driver’s licence is required.
• You will need – or be able to obtain – a valid passport for travel.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• This is a permanent, locally employed position, with terms and conditions being set in accordance with local employment regulations.
• No offshore allowance, transfer allowance or provision of housing applies.

A detailed position description is available here.